No Job? No Fit? Here’s How to Get In Anyway

Many job seekers struggle because no role seems to match them. Maybe you're changing careers, just starting out, or living somewhere with limited opportunities. The job you want doesn't exist, or you don’t meet the posted requirements.

So what can you do?

Solve the problem behind the job description.

Job Descriptions = Problem Statements

A job description is not just a checklist. It’s a company saying, “We have a problem and need help solving it.”

Think of it like an RFP (Request for Proposal): the company needs a solution, and you’re one of the potential vendors.

Example:

They say they need “3+ years of enterprise documentation experience.”What they really need: clear, organized documentation.

If you’ve built wikis, structured academic content, or created how-to guides, even outside of a job, you’ve solved that problem. That’s what matters.

The Mindset Shift

Most people ask:

“Do I match the job description?”

Instead, ask:

“Do I understand the problem, and can I solve it?”

That shift gives you confidence. Fitting the requirements is ideal, and you should aim to match them when possible. But if you don’t, focus on showing how you can solve the real problem behind the role. That’s an alternative path to getting in.

How to Find the Problem

Sometimes it’s obvious and listed in the job description. But many times it is hidden, since companies do not like to advertise their problems to competitors and clients. If not, here’s how to dig deeper:

• Read 10-Ks or investor reports. What are the company’s challenges?

• Browse Glassdoor. What do employees complain about?

• Use ChatGPT or other LLMs to summarize patterns in reviews or job posts, and research news and posts about the company.

• Audit the product or website. Is something broken, outdated, or confusing?

Once you find the real issue, shape your resume, cover letter, and interview answers around how you’ve solved that type of problem. Be subtle, just in case you misread the problem or to avoid appearing as though you tailored your materials too obviously.

Consider asking this in the interview:

“What’s the main problem you want this person to solve in the first months?”

That question alone can change how they see you.

Two Scenarios Where This Works

1. A Job Exists, But You’re Not a Perfect Match

Show how your past work solves the core problem, even if you don’t meet all the listed qualifications.

2. No Job Exists, But a Need Is Obvious

Great for career changers or those in limited markets. Spot the gap and pitch a contract or part-time solution.

Examples:

• Site copy is broken? Offer a fix.

• Onboarding is chaotic? Share a structured guide.

• Documentation is missing? Build a prototype.

If you solve a clear problem, many companies will create a role, even if none was posted. The role might be a contract, but it's work and it's a start.

Final Thought

When no job fits, don’t wait.

Understand the problem, and show how you can solve it.

Checking the boxes is great—you should aim to meet the requirements when possible. But showing that you can solve the underlying problem is powerful too.